The Western Carpathians (Apuseni Mountains) form a distinct mountain group in northwestern Romania, separated from the main Carpathian chain by the Transylvanian Plateau.
Key features:
- Medium altitude mountains with highest peak Cucurbata Mare (1,849m)
- Notable for extensive karst formations with over 7,000 caves including Scarisoara Ice Cave
- Rich biodiversity with approximately 1,550 plant species
- Main mountain ranges include Bihor, Vladeasa, Metaliferi, and Trascau
- Historical importance for mining (gold, silver, copper)
- Cultural significance as home to the Moti people, known for traditional woodworking
- Major rivers: Crisul Repede, Crisul Negru, Aries, and Somesul Mic
1. Western Carpathians groups
1.1 Bihor group
- Distance: 149km
- Uphill: 3800m
- GPX: OneRidge_Western_Bihor.gpx
1.2 Poiana Rusca group
- Distance: 116km
- Uphill: 1800m
- GPX: OneRidge_Western_Rusca.gpx
1.3 Apuseni group
- Distance: 126km
- Uphill: 4400m
- GPX: OneRidge_Western_Apuseni.gpx
